Dubai love story: Revisiting Buloy, the Filipino mechanic who overcame disabilities, found work and love in Dubai

Dubai: Do you remember Juan "Buloy" Samujo Briza, the Filipino mechanic in Dubai who defied all odds? Born with a rare condition that left him without hands and feet, Buloy's story, first shared by Gulf News in 2018, and captured hearts worldwide. Despite his physical challenges, he showed the world that true strength isn't measured by limbs, but by resilience and heart.

Today, years later, Buloy, 41, continues to inspire as he and his fiancée, Joanna Mary San Diego, defy expectations and work tirelessly to build a brighter future together in the Philippines. Gulf News caught up with Buloy in an exclusive phone interview to learn about his current life and how he’s overcoming the challenges that still come his way. His incredible journey is a heartwarming testament to the power of love, courage, and determination.

Love drives Buloy home

Leaving behind a promising career in Dubai, Buloy, followed his heart and returned to the Philippines to be with the love of his life. His story is a shining example of love and determination overcoming the greatest of obstacles. Born with dysmelia, a congenital condition that caused limb deficiency, Buloy’s hands and feet were not fully formed. Despite this, he pursued his dream of becoming an auto mechanic, proving that the human spirit can triumph over adversity.

In Dubai, Buloy had a stable career, but love led him back to the Philippines, where he embraced a simpler life with Joanna. Their bond, born out of mutual respect, love, and resilience, continues to grow stronger every day.

A new chapter: Building a life together in the Philippines

Life in the Philippines hasn't been easy, but Buloy and Joanna make every moment count. Their day starts at dawn, grabbing fresh ingredients from the market then cooking up a variety of street food to sell. Buloy shared, “Every day, we wake up at 5am to hit the public market, then cook different menus to sell. By 2.30pm, Joanna and I are out on the streets of Plaridel Bulacan, selling street food, from kwek-kwek (quail eggs) to dumplings, all while I deliver it on my Ebike. It’s hard work, but we’re determined to make it happen!” Although their daily earnings average 3,000 pesos (Dh190), the couple only makes a profit of about 1,000 pesos. Despite this, they are grateful for each other and their good health, remaining optimistic about their future.

Buloy dreams of opening his own karinderia (a local eatery) to provide for his family and secure a brighter future. “I dream of having our own karinderia and a small house—even just 50 square meters—in Bulacan,” he said. “We’re content and happy with what we have.” Although their wedding plans have been delayed due to financial challenges, the couple remains determined, saving every bit they can for the day they can finally celebrate their love and start the next chapter of their journey. Their resilience and optimism are a testament to the power of dreams, no matter the obstacles.

True love knows no boundaries

Joanna, 25, admires not only Buloy’s determination but also his unwavering love and kindness. “He’s more than just any normal man,” she says. “He’s hardworking, loving, and always supports me.” Despite facing health challenges like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which makes it difficult for Joanna to conceive, they remain optimistic about their future together.

Although Buloy misses the modern comforts of Dubai—the shopping malls, the delicious chicken biryani, and the iconic skyline—he remains hopeful that one day, he and Joanna will return to experience it all again. “I miss strolling through the malls every Friday, eating chicken biryani and shawarma,” Buloy shared. “I hope to take Joanna to Dubai so she can see its breathtaking buildings.”

Their journey is a powerful reminder of how love and determination can overcome any obstacle. Together, they continue working towards a brighter future, proving that love knows no limits and nothing can stop a heart driven by passion and resilience!